Micky van de Ven in action for Spurs in 2025

Van de Ven urged to consider summer exit amid Spurs struggles

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Feb 5, 2026, 11:25 am
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Image: IMAGO / Every Second Media

Micky van de Ven has been urged to consider a move to one of Europe’s elite clubs this summer, with growing doubts over Tottenham’s direction under Thomas Frank fuelling speculation about the defender’s long-term future.

The Dutch centre-back has been one of Spurs’ most consistent performers in a difficult campaign, and former Netherlands international Eljero Elia believes the time is approaching for Van de Ven to take the next step in his career.

Tottenham struggles put Van de Ven future under spotlight

Despite Van de Ven’s pace and defensive recovery repeatedly limiting damage at the back, Tottenham have struggled to find stability since Frank’s appointment. The head coach has yet to fully implement his tactical vision, and results have left Spurs drifting in the bottom half of the Premier League.

With Champions League qualification looking increasingly unlikely, questions are emerging about how Tottenham can retain their top assets. Van de Ven’s individual performances have continued to draw praise, even as collective form has dipped, and his profile across Europe remains high.

As a result, attention has already turned towards the summer window, with the 24-year-old viewed by many observers as a player capable of competing for major honours at a higher level.

Elia backs ‘bigger team’ move

Elia, speaking about his compatriot’s development, made clear he believes Van de Ven is ready to move beyond Tottenham’s current project.

“I think Van de Ven has to finish the season at Tottenham consistently and show everybody he can go to the next level,” — Eljero Elia

The former winger highlighted the defender’s all-round qualities and suggested a move to Europe’s true heavyweights would suit his trajectory.

“If he continues like this, I think he can make a good step to the bigger clubs. Not that Tottenham isn’t a big club, but clubs that are a step above, like Real Madrid and Liverpool,” — Eljero Elia

Liverpool links grow amid defensive issues

Interest from Liverpool has intensified against the backdrop of a severe injury crisis in their defensive unit. Arne Slot has been forced to juggle limited options, with multiple long-term absentees leaving the squad stretched during a decisive phase of the season.

Although Liverpool secured a deal for Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet in January, the 20-year-old will not arrive until the summer, leaving the club exposed in the short term. Van de Ven’s pace, versatility and Premier League experience make him an attractive long-term solution.

High-pressure run-in for both clubs

Liverpool’s need for defensive reinforcement has been underlined ahead of a demanding run of fixtures, including a major clash with Manchester City this weekend. For Tottenham, the focus remains on ending a prolonged winless league run, with Van de Ven expected to play a key role when Spurs travel to Manchester United.

Tottenham currently sit 14th in the table, closer to the relegation zone than the top four, a position that only amplifies uncertainty around their summer plans.

Key Insights

  • Van de Ven remains one of Tottenham’s standout performers
  • Spurs’ struggles under Thomas Frank have raised exit speculation
  • Eljero Elia believes a move to a bigger club would suit his career
  • Liverpool and Real Madrid are among the clubs linked
  • Summer transfer interest is expected to intensify

What’s Next

Van de Ven is expected to remain focused on helping Tottenham stabilise results in the short term, but attention is likely to turn quickly to his future once the season concludes. With Spurs facing an uncertain rebuild and elite clubs monitoring his progress, the coming months could prove decisive.

Should Tottenham do everything possible to build around Van de Ven, or is a summer move to an elite club now inevitable?

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